The Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) has formally requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to modify the schedule for two matches slated in the upcoming ICC World Cup 2023 in India. The basis for this appeal revolves around security concerns that have been raised by the local police, as reported by The Indian Express on Sunday.
This request comes at a critical juncture, with less than two months remaining until the commencement of this major cricketing event. The Hyderabad Police have sounded the alarm regarding their ability to provide adequate security for two consecutive matches. The matches in question are the New Zealand-Netherlands encounter scheduled for October 9 and, more notably, the Pakistan-Sri Lanka fixture set for October 10 at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Uppal.
Initially, the Pakistan-Sri Lanka match was slated for October 12. However, the date was subsequently adjusted to allow Pakistan ample recovery time between fixtures after their high-stakes showdown with India on October 14.
It’s noteworthy that earlier this month, nine matches of the World Cup were rescheduled without consultation with the HCA. This has compelled the HCA to formally request a change in the tournament schedule.
According to reports, the Hyderabad Police have conveyed their inability to manage security arrangements for two consecutive matches, with particular concern for the Pakistan game. For just one match, as many as 3,000 police personnel will be deployed, and a substantial contingent will be stationed at the hotel where the Pakistan team will be accommodated.
